The Prism jury (comprised of over 100 industry professionals from music, film and media) has already begun the process of sifting through hundreds of eligible clips, in hopes of picking their favourite video released between January 1 and December 31, 2013. The jury’s votes will be tabulated by year’s end and the Top 10 Shortlist will be announced February 18, 2014. It all leads to the Winner’s Announcement and reception gala, held in Toronto on March 23, 2014. The winning video will be awarded the beautiful Prism trophy and an over-sized cheque for $5000.

“99% of music videos made today are passion projects. That is, nobody gets paid,” says Noah Pink, who’s brilliant through-line bio clip for Rich Aucoin’s Brian Wilson is A.L.I.V.E beat out the competition to take the prize in the inaugural year. “We do it for the love of music, the love of film and the love of getting together with your friends and making something cool. I feel like the Prism Prize is based on the same spirit – music lovers from coast to coast get together and share the videos that moved them most. How cool is that?”

Speaking from personal experience, Pink adds, “To have a prize that helps pay the debts incurred when you crash a van during the video shoot is not only amazing, but a gift from the heavens.”

As always, videos will be judged on originality, creativity, style, innovation and effective execution. Any music video released in the 2013 calendar year may be considered for entry and eligibility is determined according to Canadian content rules, as defined by the CRTC. The majority of the Prism jury will return for year two and numerous new voices have been added to the group. For the complete list, please visit prismprize.com/jury.